Colts could be out of Luck on Thursday night

Other than a losing week, nothing bugs Pro Picks more than having no spread on a Thursday night game.

That's the case this time around as the Colts figure out how healthy Andrew Luck's right (throwing) shoulder is.

The star quarterback missed a game for the first time in his three-plus pro seasons and Indianapolis (No. 17 in AP Pro32) was taken to the limit and beyond before beating Jacksonville in overtime.

Matt Hasselbeck, Luck's 40-year-old backup, played reasonably well and Indy extended its string of wins within the AFC South to a record-tying 15 games.

''I'm going to approach this week the same way I approached last week and every other week,'' said Hasselbeck, who was ill and absent from practice Tuesday, further clouding the picture. ''I expect him to play, but I'll be ready if needed.''

Houston (No. 28 in AP Pro32) has been among the most disappointing teams in the NFL, but it has two-time Defensive Player of the Year J.J. Watt operating against a mediocre offensive line.

''I would say Andrew Luck will play in the game, so we will prepare for him,'' Texans coach Bill O'Brien said.

Whether he plays or not, the Texans will end Indy's impressive streak.

TEXANS, 24-20

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KNOCKOUT LEAGUE TIP:

SAN DIEGO made it too tight for comfort last week, but survived. Lots of potential choices this week (New England, Atlanta, Green Bay, Kansas City). Our suggestion: NEW YORK GIANTS.

No. 1 New England (minus 7 1-2) at No. 15 Dallas

The Cowboys might be too banged up to handle Boston College, let alone the Patriots.

BEST BET: PATRIOTS, 33-17

No. 30 Jacksonville (plus 3) at No. 32 Tampa Bay

Skirmish in the Sunshine State? More like a finger fight, but we think Jaguars are better team.